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OPINION

Letter: Taking steps on behalf of Dreamers

NorthJersey
Published 5:07 p.m. ET May 25, 2018

Rudy Joseph, 17, of Elizabeth came to a rally in Newark recently to show his support for Dreamers. Joseph, who was born in the US said he came to Newark Wednesday because, "I've seen too many of my friends growing up going through these type of situations that I didn't have to go through and I do not think it is right."(Photo: Kevin R. Wexler/NorthJersey.com)

Earlier this week, New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal took a monumental step to protect New Jersey’s DREAMers – young, undocumented immigrants who were brought to the United States as children. While Texas officials are seeking an end to DACA – or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals -- very few states have moved to protect these young members of our communities.

As the name states, the policy allows young people who’ve been here for several years to be able to stay and eventually be eligible for work permits in the United States. Grewal’s decision to intervene in Texas’ action is the latest progressive step that leaders in Gov. Phil Murphy’s administration have taken in an effort to protect immigrants living in the Garden State.

There are about 17,000 Dreamers who are the living embodiment of the American Dream, and call New Jersey home. These young people are our neighbors, friends, family members, classmates, and co-workers.

We are at a crossroads in our country, and our leaders must continue to do everything they can to protect the most vulnerable among us. The very values of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are at risk as the Trump administration continues to push xenophobic immigration policies that would cost American taxpayers millions and ruin the lives of thousands of hardworking people.

We are grateful the governor and other leaders in New Jersey reflect the value of the majority of the country who think these “Dreamers” should be allowed to stay in the U.S. Now we are looking to Congress to pass comprehensive legislation for all 800,000 Dreamers who call the US home.